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Blitz Boom

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@Blitz Boom
Ruby of course took the lid option right away when she saw it, she then took both meat and pony food, timing it in a way that anytime she felt like someone had a chance to see what she took, she chose pony food, and when she was sure she was unnoticed, she took meat. This was also preparing for the eating since she would need to keep an eye on Spicy so that she wouldn't eat meat in her view, and pausing randomly with your eating could be suspicious. In the end she had quite balanced meal, enough pony food to hide the meat, but not enough to ruin the taste.

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Nada didn't see reason to stop, because she didn't believe that squirrels would have interest to harm her, and even if they did, she could just fly up above the forest. Even after noticing she was quite lost she didn't worry, though she did get curious where the squirrels were leading her.

When they arrived to the grove, Nada looked around her and first thought that came to her mind was 'This place looks very Lyriel'. she was broken out of her thought by the squirrels, and after realizing what they wanted, she went to investigate the tree.

 

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@Blitz Boom The Local Post Office is on the ground floor of a office building. Besides the Post Office, there is a sign for a Long Distance Pegasus delivery company called Higher for Hire, and the other takes up three floors. A yawning Unicorn sits behind the counter.

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@Blitz Boom

Thunder blinks "Oh well yeah, I sort of met him, it was more like I saw him from afar while waiting for Tidal to stop talking with him. I didn't want to be rude" he'd say, then as he listened to her and nods "Well, sort of, I'm in between Ponyville and Cloudsdale" he'd say "My folks are from Cloudsdale and I grew up there, but I spend a lot of my time down in Ponyville, usually just hanging out with Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash" He'd say with a smile.

They would then come across Shell's brother, "Hello Sergeant" he would say, remembering what had happened earlier, "He looked alright, I didn't detect any alcohol on him, and Tidal didn't seem to have been giving him too hard a time" he'd say to the Sergeant "I'm a new recruit, my name is Thunder Rush, by the way" He'd hold out his hoof "Pleasure"

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@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

Aurora was at a loss as to what to do so she gave a small smile before thinking of it. "Ah. My magic trick is ..." Aurora sighed and nodded to herself. "Alright, focus on me. I may not seem like I'm able to, but I'm going to change. Like the adults do." she said and in a burst of green-coloured fire, transformed into her usual changeling self. She was the old kind of changeling, with black chitinous armor, green membranous wings, but her mane was a reddish-orange colour instead of a blue-green variety. Her size shrunk to be about half as tall as the size of the cart too but she could still walk and see just fine. She had no idea on how the nymph would react, and didn't remember if Happy has seen her like this either.

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"You're already proving your worth, Last," Twilight said happily. She nodded to Cherish to acknowledge what she said but didn't elaborate further on it, in favour of conversing with Last for a bit. She did know that these were weaknesses of her and her friends but for whatever reason, they haven't been exploited. At least as far as she could remember. "I already know about how much we rely on friendship and magic to get us through the battles. It's a wonder none of the villains we've fought have thought of that before. I guess I just never really thought too hard about it until you mentioned just how big of a weakness it really is."

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE

"These tunnels go on forever!" Karmic whined and sat down at a junction, rubbing her hooves. "That filly is nowhere to be seen and there hasn't been any sign of anyone living here! GAH! IT FEELS LIKE WE'VE BEEN WANDERING IN CIRCLES!"

Edited by Sekel
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@Blitz Boom

“Thanks, Rosa. It’s very rare to have a simple conversation about ordinary things after struggling to get by for so long. I remembered having conversations like these with my parents, them encouraging me to be open to new experiences, meeting new faces. My father, especially so, he taught me the value of making a good impression on others.”

Bishop was in no way antagonistic towards Sen and he had no reason to disrespect the buffalo. This was the perfect opportunity to learn the what it was like to be at the forefront of introducing the longma to the races of Equestria. No one besides Lin was up for it and Elder Ghilan is caught up with the other elders to devote time to going out and meeting other creatures. 

“All this also reminded me of this one minotaur I met many years ago. He was abrasive and he didn’t mince his words but he could tell I wasn’t interested in meeting others yet I considered giving up searching for Lin. I was pathetic back then, feeling sorry for myself, but he told me to take a chance on someone. Asking for help was difficult and by that point I gave up on hoping anyone would want to help a homeless vagrant like me. I didn’t take his words to heart until I got to the Everfree Forest and I decided to try and do just that when I met Omen.

After that, it got easier… communicating with others, ponies, buffalo, even thestrals.” 

That was a good memory, the first that led to many more. Sen would spend a quiet moment contemplating on how that one moment could have done a lot to prepare him for a new road ahead. Looking back, never did he imaging being able to meet many creatures outside of the longma. In any other lifetime, it would be an achievement to boast about to the folks back home but they wouldn’t acknowledge it. As it stands right now, it is only something few would understand and that’s alright. He’s made friends among the ponies and even Discord numbered among them. Quite an unimaginable feat. Sen would follow Rosa to the farm and take in the sights with each step, enjoying the sights while chatting on the way should they choose to do so.

As for Lin, she’d still watch and wait for Shrimp to wake up. No signs of that so far but she’s catch sight of Omen walking through a gate back to the cave. 

“You’re back early, Omen,” she stood and approached the Ki’Nathar. “Anything I can provide you with? Supplies maybe?”

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@Catpone Cerberus

Spicy didn't care to look at what Ruby were eating, as she knew what she were going for herself and focused on that. Some jalapeno-infused hay fries, grilled tomatoes, sea weed rolls, some spicy sauce, etc. Basically, if it were spicy or salty, she were game for it, long as she had some good dipping sauce to go along with it. And of course, a nice, big mug of cider. Sure she aimed to get hammered, but you had to pace yourself. A bit of cider first, then on they'd go up in percentages, and then keep that going until she'd blank out, and wake up in a dumpster tied to some sort of statue. Or well, in the Bunker, she supposed she'd just go weird until she passed out fully, and get funny looks from Ruby for the next three weeks. It were all good.

Soon as they'd have their plates, a burly stallion in a suit would come towards them, and look down on the two mares with complete indifference plastered over his face.

"Ma'am, your room is ready."

He weren't budging, clearly meant to be there to escort them to their room safely. Or to ensure the safety of others, it sorta depended on how you looked on it.

"Yeah, sure. Just lemme grab some habanero rolls, and let Ruby 'ere finish up, and we're all ready to go."

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@Catpone Cerberus

As she nearred the tree, it would suddenly start to move. No creaking as you might have expected from this, but rather a fluid motion to the sound of leaves blowing in the wind, as the branches turned, leaves twisted, and the tree trunk melted down into another shape, as if it hadn't even been solid in the first place.

Soon, where there once stood a tree, now were Lyriel, who had taken a step forth as the transformation had occurred. Though her eyes were closed, it seemed as if she knew who were here, as a pleasant smile were plastered on her face, and she were turned directly towards the floating siren for several seconds, before her eyes opened, and her gaze fell on the squirrels.

As she knelt down and reached a hoof towards them, the lot came bouncing over and cuddled themselves up against her bark-covered hooves, squeaking joyfully as the contact.

"Thank you for bringing her, little ones."

This went on for a few more seconds after that, before she started to slowly rise again, and the group took off. They had nuts to harvest, and only so much time to do so before winter. A time of year in which Lyriel understood that she would be tested, as she had never seen such a time of year herself. All sorrows in due time though, yes?

"We meet again, daughter of the tides. Welcome to my grove."

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@Moonlit

Ziggy trotted in, happy as could be, and leaned down when she got to the desk to be more at eye level with the drowsy unicorn.

"Hehe, bit of a slow day?"

If her smile got much bigger and happier, it would either blind someone, or cause them to vomit up a rainbow. A bit much maybe, but working in the service and postal industry were no joke- What with all the rude customers and such. So why not try and brighten his day? Never hurt anypony to try at least.

"No worries, I have letters from Harmony. Not all that many, but it's gotta be more interesting than sitting around and being bored, right?"

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@Critical-Hit

The sergeant nodded quietly to himself, as Thunder gave his take on how Chop were. Not a whole lot to go on, but knowing that he were still at work, kept away from the booze, and that the general were having a friendly chat with him, seemed to fit in line with his rehabilitation going well. The letters had said that too, and he wanted to trust his friend, but if he had fallen back in, that might've been a touchy subject he hadn't wanted to share.

"It's good to hear he's staying on the wagon. Trust me on this recruit, there's no answers at the bottom of a bottle. Only trouble."

He knew others who hadn't managed to get off the sauce, and who had far less reason than Chop had to stay on it, and as such, he knew how bad it could go. Not something he'd wish upon his worst enemy, and that were saying something, as he sure wanted to trap some of them in the cages right above the feeding tank, for an extended period of time. How long? Depended on how long it'd take for him to take pity on them crying, but that were neither here, nor there.

Taking a step forth, the tired stallion took a grip in Thunder's hoof, and gave it two shakes, before letting go again.

"Late sign, huh? You should be thankful the captain isn't overseeing this anymore, or you would've had to wait until next year."

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@Sekel

Happy hadn't seen it before, but he didn't mind really. He were used to seeing the old, regular kind of changeling more than the new sort, and all he could really bite note in were that she had a mane. Multicolored too, which were fairly unusual for changelings. Drones never had it, with a rare exception of the nurses handling the nymphs occasionally having some, but it were highly unusual. Unless of course Aurora were a royal changeling? Not fully grown into it, clearly, but... Ergh, perhaps there were something to that. He honestly weren't sure how a royal bred changeling would look like, if they weren't fed royal jelly. Might be they'd get to be in-between a drone and a queen, kind of? Might be something he should ask in to later. Mainly from his own queen, who'd likely know the most on this topic out of the three of them.

As for the nymph, she clutched Happy a little tighter, and sunk a bit down his fluff in a way that made it seem as if she were perhaps afraid. Yet if that were the case, her big eyes looking at Aurora in wonder and confusion didn't make a whole lot of sense.

It were seemingly more clear that the nymph were shy and still a bit uneasy around sorts of creatures she weren't used to dealing with.

"...Wyh ahre yuh loohging lihk fhat?"

"Your parents and your king did too one, lil' one. This here's just a less colorful changeling. I guarantee you though, she's a good bug. Ain't gonna hurt you."

"Cahn ah tousch hehr?"

"I dunno. Can she, Aurora? Try an' think of it as kind of of a cultural exchange."

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@Sekel

"Where I grew up, we faced a lot of smarter enemies your majesty, so most of us learned the hard way what happens if you underestimate them.

The Shrine's empty now, and some of them might start spreading out. If any of them came here, they wouldn't be like the playful buffoons you've dealt with. Especially not the Manetids."

Last would spit on the ground at the mention of their name.

"Might be none of those ever comes 'round here, but it's better to be prepared for the worst. Same reason some shelters and exit tunnels would do your town good. That dome around town the last attack? Without the two mares cancelling out the wind magic, folks would've been trapped, and the buildings wouldn't have been the only things smashed to pieces. Trust me, it's not a pretty sight."

"Uhm... P-Please don't go into details about that."

A small, vague chuckle escaped Last for a moment as Cherish interrupted.

"A ghost scared of death... This world's a weird place."

"I just don't like the idea that others turns out like me. I mean, I'm fine... Ish, but I'd still prefer to be alive. It looks better than being a ghost."

"Eh."

Ponyville were getting into sight, so soon enough, they'd be able to get on wit their endeavors. Or having a break or something. The princess were the one in charge, so it depended on what she saw fit to happen.

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@Sekel

Enzo were about to say something to Karmic's frustrated shout, when a hollow, grovelling sound interrupted his line of thought.

It were coming from somewhere deeper inside the cave, though there were no visual of any creature nearby. It might well be that whatever it were, the growl had just bounced off the walls, as tended to happen in caves, and it might not even be a creature of any significant size. It could be something as minor as a half-grown puma for instance. Sure that could be an issue for a pony, but for a sphinx? The size difference alone would make it a simple fight in Enzo's favor.

At the same time though... this sort of hollow sound weren't usually something given off by a cat, or any other creature he knew of either. That it weren't discernible as something hostile, inviting, or warning in any sort of way, weren't making this any easier to react upon either, but it certainly did make the sphinx feel a little on edge.

"...We might not be as alone as we thought. Come, rise up to safety, Karmic."

He would hold a paw out towards Karmic, so that she could get up in his palm and be transported up to his head. It'd be safer for her there, in case something would stir inside.

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@EQ_Theta

12 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“All this also reminded me of this one minotaur I met many years ago. He was abrasive and he didn’t mince his words but he could tell I wasn’t interested in meeting others yet I considered giving up searching for Lin. I was pathetic back then, feeling sorry for myself, but he told me to take a chance on someone. Asking for help was difficult and by that point I gave up on hoping anyone would want to help a homeless vagrant like me. I didn’t take his words to heart until I got to the Everfree Forest and I decided to try and do just that when I met Omen.

After that, it got easier… communicating with others, ponies, buffalo, even thestrals.” 

"Minotaurs can be difficult creatures to deal with. Ancestral pride and being a culturally different people that tends to not pack things in nicely, can make it difficult to communicate with them in a positive way, yet their world views have merit, and their wisdom - as simple as it tends to be - can oftentimes cut to the chase, where others like us might end up overthinking things, and go into our shells.

Their kind doesn't bend the knee to anyone, nor give up, and I'm thankful that the one you met didn't belittle you for feeling hopeless, but instead tried to tell you to push on too. Seeking help isn't an easy thing, but it is a sign of strength to know when you need someone else. As is opening up to a stranger.

I can imagine it being a bit... Problematic, to try this with Omen though. Peculiar as she is, her simplistic personality and brutal honesty, makes for a very honest, non-threatening creature. With that that directness and slightly unnerving way she imparts an impression on you though, I can imagine it were somewhat of a rocky start. Perhaps when there is time, you could tell me about that first meeting?"

It were more of a rhetorical right now, as they had reached the farm, though honestly, he could hear himself ramble, and were not too amused by that. It sounded wrong somehow, and less calculated. Perhaps he were just a little tired still, and needed a bit more time to fully wake up.

As for the farm, it were a grand *little* thing, with the trees rising strong and healthy all around them, booming with ripe, fresh apples. It seemed like harvest season were about ready these days, so at least they'd know the Apples had to be on the farm, either preparing for it, or already in full swing. At least that'd mean this trip had not been a vain.

"I can imagine at least some of them will be in the fields. We should look around, and see if we can find any. Keep your eyes and ears perked up, in case you hear something."

With that, he'd go towards the fields, on the hunt for a member of this local branch of the Apple family.

12 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“You’re back early, Omen,” she stood and approached the Ki’Nathar. “Anything I can provide you with? Supplies maybe?”

"Rosa wanted his glasses."

Rummaging around, Omen would withdraw the ruined mask soon after, and then look at the muzzle piece, still clinging on defiantly, and sadly not being the sort that were likely to just fall off. So she tried pulling a few times, then bite down, but nothing really seemed to happen. Sturdy cloth, at least for Omen's abilities, which did not include tailoring. As had been shown several times, keeping her near thread or yarn were a bad idea.

"He said he wanted the muzzle piece off. Can you cut, Lin?"

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@Blitz Boom

“She is simple-minded but Omen’s honesty is direct, and it helps us get back to the things that matter when we go astray. It certainly came in handy many times before. To be honest, I wished I had even a bit of that, being able to focus on the important things to give direction when I’m lost. I don’t recall if our first meeting was problematic; I guess we just hit it off almost easily but I think asking Omen might be a good idea. You know, to confirm if that was how things happened."

By the time Sen had finished his response, he caught glimpse of the apple orchard. A quaint place with its own rustic charm, trees in bloom and apples succulent and ripe he could simply reach over and taste one. Not that he’d actually take one but it was tempting to try and see what made the Apple family apples such a big deal. Perhaps it may not even be the apples themselves but their reputation that serves as the draw. Right now, Sen followed Rosa’s lead and kept his senses sharp, ready to alert the thestral to the presence of the orchard’s owners.

Meanwhile, Lin observed what Omen was trying to do and seeing the odd mask, was perplexed at why it had to come apart. Of course, she didn’t know the whole story but didn’t see the harm in cutting up the object into its component pieces. Rosa gave his permission going by the longma could infer. She bared her claws and with one swift motion cut the glasses off the rest of the mask.

“There you go! A nice, clean cut. Shame about the mask though. I thought it was interesting but I’m guessing those glasses are important for whatever it is Rosa will be doing.”

Edited by EQ_Theta
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@Blitz Boom The Unicorn nods, and suppresses a yawn. "Let's see, one to Canterlot, one to Ponyville, one to Vanhoover...and" He blinks, "One to Site B?" He shrugs, "Harmony's always sending letters to weird places." He sorts the letters, "It's been a slow day, but meh" He shrugs, "I like slow days. I've got two letters for Harmony, can you sign for them?"

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@Blitz Boom

Thunder would shake his hoof and nods "Yeah, kind of a fluke that I literally bumped into Tidal" he would say "I was actually on my way to sign up for the Royal Guard when I bumped into her, and she managed to rope me into signing up for the Coastal instead" she'd say "I'm sure my sister Fluttershy would be happy too"

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@Blitz Boom

The older mare's disbelief, Rising could completely understand.  Coming from a land like Harrowmark could easily lead to the idea that he'd actually be dead and still able to be up and about.  Hardly the case though.  Such is the issue of a pony able to believe the natural course of things were to come to pass.  With the fall of a dark wizard that had been ruling the land in tyranny for so long, it could be hard for anypony to comprehend that such a thing could occur.  Not that he could judge, his own lands have been rules by Princess Celestia for over a thousand years.  

"I am quite alive," the detective affirmed.  Watching as she reached out between the cage bars.  Rising taking a step forward he reached up with his own, giving her a hoof clop.  The detective was indeed solid and alive.  "And the Dark Wizard Twisted Gears, has fallen," Rising nodded and lowered his hoof back to the hard wood floor.  Taking a step back, the tired unicorn slumped to his rump to take a seat.  Grabbing his saddle bag and setting it aside to get the weight off his back.  Sighing with the relief, "His dark god seemed displeased with his performance and took back what was given," he furthered explained as the witch likely knew better what he might be talking about.  While talking he pulled his bag closer to him and opened up the flap.  "I met a lovely little town full of some interesting folk that you might know," Rising started, but his voice become muffled a little as he stuck his upper body into his saddle bag.  Coming out with the sickle Lily's daughter had given him.  Placing it on the floor with the runes up, just out of Lily's reach.  Not to be cruel, but it was still a weapon that while the cage could nullify any magic, wouldn't do much to stop the slicey part.  "Your daughter says she forgives you," he informed the witch in a gentle tone.

Letting that sink in for a moment before letting his inquisitive mind take over.  There were two sides of every coin and Rising had an inquiry.  Too many unanswered questions, and the ones answered only from a single point of view.  Summoning forth the light tainted wisp and floating it into Lily's view, "What can you tell me about The Goddess?"

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@Blitz Boom
"I'm already done." Ruby quickly informed when she heard Spicy mention her name, and as she waited for her to get her rolls, she just looked at the stallion with even deeper indifference than his complete indifference, maybe she should consider bodyguard's job, they seemed to just stand around looking uninterested all day, which would fit Ruby pretty well. "You know, you better not disappoint me after all of this talk about bunkers and such." there was humor in her tone, but she was being serious, she would be very disappointed if nothing happened. 

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Nada just blinked surprised when the tree transformed into Lyriel, normally her reaction would probably been more extreme, but she had so much weird stuff to try to understand already that she had no reactions left in her. "I figured this place had something to do with you after seeing it, it is so....natural, thank you for letting me come here." she said with general happiness in her voice after Lyriel addressed her "Is there something you want to talk about? since you had squirrels lead me here?" she knew it may have been a bit rude to skip the greetings, but she didn't really know what else to say or do.

 

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@Catpone Cerberus

The bodyguard couldn't give one singular bit about whatever or not Ruby glanced at him. Quite frankly, he considered having to escort them to be beneath him, but an order were an order, and he'd get it done before returning to patrol this place again, to see if he could spot troublemakers. That were at least somewhat entertaining, rather than having to lug around a couple of mares that he could hardly care less about. This were a job, not a social course, and as such he'd be professional about it. Generally that meant being indifferent and impartial, though that weren't shared by all the other guards here.

19 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"You know, you better not disappoint me after all of this talk about bunkers and such."

"You should cool your expectations a bit then. I know the name's all fancy and stuff, but it's not a swanky suite or the like. It's a highly reinforced, soundproof room. We're talking primo place to have a rowdy party take place, without disturbing anypony, and with no way to get out soon as you're in there. Management got the only key, for safety reasons."

Being escorted there, it did have its charms though. A big, open area, some sturdy, yet pretty furniture that could allow for even a dragon to lie down on the big couch in the surprisingly large room, and the whole place were set in a way that it could help amplify sound, which were good for party folks, yet also required more of a strain on the outer walls to keep things quiet.

A fully stocked bar were also present, though Ruby would likely bite notice in the complete lack of any shark edges, knifes, or breakable glass. The drinking glasses in the room were even made of flexible plastic, apparently to avoid some rather unfortunate issues from happening.

Ruby would have complete privacy down here. Except for the fact that Spicy were always here, but beyond that she could literally turn full dragon, roar at the top of her lungs, and nopony outside of these walls would be none the wiser.

===================================================================

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Nothing in particular. I have simply asked many of the forests critters to let me know if it seems you are searching for me, and if possible, lead you here.

A dryad's grove is a very private thing, which cannot simply be found. With illusions and natural barriers, I can keep it closed off for all but the initiated, and maintain my little sanctuary. My home if you will."

Historically, her tribe were ones who were social, but still maintained a place just for them, where they could have peace and truly connect with the earthen mother without interference. The surrounding animals would be told where to find them, in case trouble were brewing, but for others living in their area, it were a rare thing to visit. It would be akin to a pony opening up their home, and show them their private chambers. Not something that you did towards just any being, unless you trusted them, and believed they would respect your privacy. 

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@Moonlit

"Yeppers. Not sure why you'd like a slow day though. Time just flies by when you're busy, and outside's where all the pretty sights and fresh air are."

Site B? Huh, sounded like a strange place. Perhaps she'd ask more about that later, unless it were one more of those secret things. Lotsa sneaky secret stuff with Harmony and her family, but eh, they had the right to pick who knew what. Long as she didn't get eaten, things would be a-okay.

So she'd sign for the letters, then grab whatever letters were pushed her way and put them in her vest. Not in one of the pockets, but on the inside, as it were safer there for things too big to be in her pockets, like regular sized letters that weren't folded.

"There you go."

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@Critical-Hit

Shell Tooth looked like if she had been drinking water at the time, she would've done a spit take when those last words popped out of Thunder's muzzle.

"Sister?! You just said you grew up with her. This here's all kinds o-"

"Recruit!"

The sharp tone and look from her older brother got Shell to reign it in, before she went all up in a tangent and made a foal out of herself.

"Now, I see why the general would want you here, recruit. A relative of the bearers of harmony is a great feather in the hat of the Coastal Guard, though I think you will enjoy it more here anyway. The air's fresher, and we don't spend 90% of our job simple standing around and guarding hallways. Here, we do actual work to keep the country safe. For somepony who'd want to make a difference, there's no better guard to follow.

Heh, don't think you'll get preferential treatment though. There's a hierarchy to follow, and if anything, you will be set at a higher standard, once word starts to spread. Something tells me that your time in the Coastal Guard is one worth keeping an eye on."

Interesting turn of events this were, to say the least, but it would explain a few things. He could imagine that soon as he had taken off again though, his sister would start bombarding Thunder with questions, but she'd hopefully be more in control of herself at that point, and be rational about it. Her impulsive nature were sometimes a detriment to her.

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@EQ_Theta

On 11/3/2019 at 3:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“She is simple-minded but Omen’s honesty is direct, and it helps us get back to the things that matter when we go astray. It certainly came in handy many times before. To be honest, I wished I had even a bit of that, being able to focus on the important things to give direction when I’m lost. I don’t recall if our first meeting was problematic; I guess we just hit it off almost easily but I think asking Omen might be a good idea. You know, to confirm if that was how things happened."

"Much as her focus at times can be commendable, I do not envy her mind. The cluttering seems to cause her a lot of trouble at times.

But I digress. Your shared story is one I will ask her about when the time is right. I cannot imagine that she would forget what were undoubtedly an equally important meeting for her, with any sort of ease."

There were more he could say, but they had some Apples to find, and his ramblings would just boiled down to saying the same thing here: That Sen and Omen were fortunate to have met eachother, as they both helped one another through trying times. Many were likely still ahead for them, as well as for Lin and himself, but hopefully they could all manage to get through it together. A peculiar thought to get used to, seeing how long he had to be self reliant.

*sigh* And look where that got him...

A sound not too far ahead made Rosa perk his ears. It wasn't too loud, but his sensitive thestral ears could hear it well enough, and so might Sen, if his hearing were good. Rosa had not remembered to ask about something like that yet, so he couldn't say for sure.

"...Someone's kicking a tree. I believe we're getting close."

On 11/3/2019 at 3:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“There you go! A nice, clean cut. Shame about the mask though. I thought it was interesting but I’m guessing those glasses are important for whatever it is Rosa will be doing.”

"He squints his eyes. The buffalo said the sun is bad for him."

Omen hadn't really met other bat ponies of either the pure blooded thestral variant, or the more common bat pony variety, all that often, outside of night time, so she didn't get the issue with their eyes and direct sunlight. All she knew for sure were that she had been asked to get these, and that according to the meeting with the teacher before, it were because it helped him see.

She tried to grasp how, by putting them in front of her own eyes after they had been cut off, but things just seemed to get darker to her, and that was it. Strange things to want. Perhaps she should ask him about this later, and find out why he needed them?

"I will bring them back. Thank you."

She'd be back at the others soon after, just before they were about to get to the originators of the sound.

"Hello. Lin helped."

"I will have to thank her later then. A moment please."

Taking the glasses, he'd put them on his face, then withdraw a long, steel line from his mane, and use it as an impromptu string to keep said glasses on his face. It wasn't perfect, and he could feel the sharp string on his skin very easily, but at least it kept most of the direct sunlight out. He'd have to work on a proper repair, sometimes later. Beginning with a proper strap more than likely.

"Aaah, that helped. Being light sensitive can be quite annoying."

He'd direct them on then, and soon after they'd cross a few trees and run into a pony, whom were surely enough, kicking on a tree to make apples fall off, and into the large basket beneath the tree.

latest?cb=20150509223006

"...Apple Cinnamon, yes?"

The stallion turned around, and looked the strange group over for a bit, unsure what to do about 'em for a bit. They didn't seem like they were here to cause trouble though, so he might as well be on his good side.

"Hey there folks. What brings you 'round the farm?"

"We are looking for Golden Delicious. Is he still in charge here?"

"Sure is, and keeps a close eye on it. Can't have Braeburn or the rest of us mucking up stuff, right?"

The pony were a jovial sort who seemed to be open-minded about things. Although he did give a curious gaze at Sen, as well as a confused glance at Omen, though the later were more because she stepped forward and sniffed the general direction he were in. Kind of a weird lass that one, and not just because of the color scheme. Honestly were making him feel a bit doozy trying to keep track of the weird look on her. But, couldn't have the others see him look like they weren't welcome. That wasn't the Apple way.

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@Rising Dusk

On 11/4/2019 at 12:14 PM, Rising Dusk said:

giving her a hoof clop.

Lily jolted back the second she made contact, as if struck by lightning. There weren't any doubt, that was the hoof of a living pony, and not some variant of an undead servant. But how were he here then? Twisted never let anyone go. It went against everything he stood for to simply allow someone to live, if they proved to be problems to him, and from what she understood, Rising and his team had been plenty problematic to her master. Halting and even overcoming his attack, from the few snippets she had heard filter through ever so rarely, when she weren't sleeping. That alone would have angered him, and he were already displeased about the sisters being out of his reach because of them. What were going on?

On 11/4/2019 at 12:14 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"And the Dark Wizard Twisted Gears, has fallen,"

The mare grew pale as she heard that, feeling like a kick had just been delivered to her gut. She carried no love for Twisted whatsoever, but still, hearing that he had fallen after reigning for so long that very few remembered had any idea what it were like without his presence, were a weighty statement. One she would have refused to believe in normally, but Rising being here, alive and well, were giving her doubts about her master's assumed permanence.

On 11/4/2019 at 12:14 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"His dark god seemed displeased with his performance and took back what was given,"

"...He failed Suusha? Then... He's d-dead?"

The dark god of Harrowmark were a tough one to serve in full, like Twisted had done. For lesser creatures showing meager worship, or giving him a few sacrifices here and there, failure would likely just be seen with disdain, but they would be allowed to remain and attempt to make up for their shortcomings. Twisted on the other hoof, had spent six centuries devoted to him, given him countless sacrifices, and helped to expand his influence quite substantially. Too much in fact, which had an... Unfortunate effect on the dark god, and placed a continuously growing degree of expectations on Twisted, to keep excelling in his endeavors. Failing to get the sisters and potentially losing a fight to Rising, would mark him as having reached his maximum potential, and being unable to keep the lofty goal that had been set for him by Suusha. And that kind of failure, would only be met one way.

On 11/4/2019 at 12:14 PM, Rising Dusk said:

Coming out with the sickle Lily's daughter had given him.  Placing it on the floor with the runes up, just out of Lily's reach.  Not to be cruel, but it was still a weapon that while the cage could nullify any magic, wouldn't do much to stop the slicey part.  "Your daughter says she forgives you," he informed the witch in a gentle tone.

She tried to reach for the sickle as it showed itself, desperately attempting to take back what did not belong to Rising, but it were too far away. Likely he thought she'd use it to slice him if it were, but that weren't the case. She just wanted to feel it on her hooves again. Get that familiar feeling of a life she had left behind many years ago, yet she couldn't draw it to her, or it would more or less just pulverize from the cage's anti-magic. The runes were the only thing keeping it intact these days, and she didn't want to change that.

Her attempts at reaching it though, ended once Rising said those six words that just made her crumble together, and she'd end up on her knees, with her muzzle facing the floor, and looking like she had been deflated by what he were saying.

"She..."

Trying as she might, this were the only thing that came out of her muzzle before she felt a tear run down from her right eye, and she forced herself to shut up before she started to bawl her eyes out. She knew well that her daughter were still alive, as she kept an eye on Sickle from time to time, to ensure that Twisted did not break the part of their deal that ensured her safety, but she hadn't spoken to her for many years at this point. Quite frankly, she assumed that Sickle hated her, for what she had done, but now this outsider came and said different... She had no reason to believe him really, but the sickle were undoubtedly theirs, and she refused to believe that he had hurt her daughter, just to bring this in and mess with her. Even as cruel as her mind could be, she could not see these do such a thing, as nothing she had seen of Equestria screamed to her that they had as easy a time to bring the end upon any creature, as many historically were in Harrowmark.

On 11/4/2019 at 12:14 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"What can you tell me about The Goddess?"

It would take a little before Lily responded, as she were trying to compose herself, but it were clear that she had seen the light tainted wisp, and didn't exactly feel better by its light. Considering what Rising said, there were no doubt who this belonged to, and that he carried it as his own... Perhaps this is why Twisted were so eager on getting the attention of Rising? Not simply because he were a thorn in his side, but because he had the power to manipulate the magic of gods. Potential usurpers like that were a grave threat to what Twisted had planned, and as were evident, he had been right to be afraid after all.

Still, an outsider, carrying the light of Viz'nay... This presented a situation, unheard of in their countries stories, at least far as she knew. And she wasn't sure if this were a good thing right now.

"...Viz'nay? Barely even rumors. Only Twisted were alive long enough to remember her rule, and his truth couldn't be trusted.

Legends have it that before Suusha increased in power, they were in harmony. They both offered their own path to the end, with Viz'nay offering eternal rest, and Suusha granting unlife, to those who had things left to do. She were seen as grander, and more worthwhile, but somehow there were still balance, up until he got stronger through sacrifices made by Twisted, and he grew crazed and bloodthirsty.

But her... Viz'nay's name is held in reverence. She ends it all, and gives us peace, but Twisted claims it were a farce. That she hoarded souls for her own power, and that those fanatical priests and priestesses of hers, only served to feed her more spirits. He claimed her to be wringing all energy from them, before forcing them to be reborn, so the cycle could go on and she'd grow stronger. He even said that the servants of hers were more or less mindless slaves. Giving their bodies to be fed to her children, whilst binding their souls to serve her for eternity. From what he said, they'd all end up and mindless drones if it were up to her, only feeding and breeding to send more to her gluttonous maw.

I don't know what - if any - truth there is in any of this. I were never allowed to ask."

It made sense really. Why would Twisted tell her anything about his own god's counterpart, aside from some rambling that would cast the goddess in nothing but a bad light? He had spent a long time suppressing most information about the goddess entirely, to try and cut off worship, so why would he share anything with his own apprentice, that may cast things in a better or worse light?

If Rising wanted unbiased answers, he would need information from the hidden archives, or find a creature old enough to remember the time before Twisted. Not an easy task, as Harrowmark did not have naturally long lived creatures like dragons in their lands, but perhaps somewhere, some kind of risen or lich, would be able to provide some answers. He'd likely have a better chance at the archives though, which considering his deeds, he were unlikely to be denied access to.

"...So he's really dead then? Twisted? The pixie? Both just... Gone?"

A defeated, tired look went over Lily, as she referenced something which Rising had likely not thought about at all: The little pixie, whom he had last seen on the altar, feeding on a crystal that were helping to mend his wounds. A minor curiosity that Twisted had kept safe, and whom hadn't been accounted for during the fight, nor aftermath.

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@Blitz Boom

Thunder chuckles "Well yeah I did grow up with her, and she is my..adopted sister" he would say, "Long story short, my parents..died when I was little and Fluttershy's parents adopted me" he'd say with a smile, he would then look to the Sergeant and smiled a bit more "And yes, I do believe that you would be right, regardless I do look forward to working with the Coastal Guard" he'd say "and I don't expect for my superiors to go soft on me, how am I to learn discipline if they do?"

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@Blitz Boom
"That's exactly what I mean, I'm expecting something to happen that is worth being locked into a bunker." Ruby informed, she meant it extra now that she heard she couldn't leave freely to do her own thing. She didn't really pay attention to the lack of dangerous things there, because though it was something she did notice, she didn't have the experiences to know what there was supposed to be.

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"I remember you mentioning about your home being hidden." Nada commented thoughtfully "And again, thank you for trusting me enough to let me come here, it means quite a lot to me." a creature trusting her felt nice, sure Berry seemed to trust her too, but it was different when you considered how other saw Berry. "I was just checking if you were around, I don't have any specific reason for it, I just got tired staying in a wooden box..." house "...and decided to see what you're doing." she then explained, even though Lyriel hadn't asked. 

 

 

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@Blitz Boom

Lin waved Omen goodbye for now and resumed waiting. Shrimp must be really tired if he doesn’t have the desire to wake up any time soon. She’d give the little creature a little bit more time before trying to wake him up again. How that is going to go is anyone’s guess but the longma took the open box of berries away before it started attracting insects. 

As for Sen, he remained quiet, stealthily following Rosa through the orchard and picking up the sound of banging. Or as Rosa mentioned, kicking a tree. Odd as activities go but not anything to be alarmed about. Harvesting apples without dexterous claws would require alternative methods and if kicking a tree to get to the fruit works, then it is fine. By then, Omen has arrived and rejoined the group and none too soon before reaching someone to talk to.

“I take it this Golden Delicious is the owner of the orchard?” Sen approached the thestral though asked in a hushed tone. “Must have been fortunate to get all this land to himself and the Apple family.”

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@EQ_Theta

19 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“I take it this Golden Delicious is the owner of the orchard?” Sen approached the thestral though asked in a hushed tone. “Must have been fortunate to get all this land to himself and the Apple family.”

"It's more of a family business, with the owners being their elderly relatives, but in my experience at least, Golden Delicious were the one making sure everything ran right, so he's seen as the de facto head of the farm by several of them."

The stallion worked in the background more often than not, so it could be hard to see his influence, but with a keen eye and a bit of time, you'd bite notice in how many things came around him before anything happened. Family members, locals, a few travelers looking for a good deal, that sort. It started to paint a pattern, and back when he had last been here, Rosa had made him flat out admit that he were the one running the ship, even if Golden had been modest about it, and claimed that he were just directing a few things, but that it were the whole family keeping it going.

"Sounds like you got some history. Darned be if I can remember you though."

"I weren't around for long, and I enjoy keeping to myself. Golden respected my privacy enough to try and keep me from overexposure to the whole family at the time. He did mention you though, and you have not changed much from back then."

"Heh, things ain't changing fast 'round here, that's fer sure. He should be in the silo, checking up on corn. You alright to go to him alone?"

"Yes. Thank you for your guidance."

"Sure thing. Have a good one, everypony."

Rosa would wait until the stallion were a bit further away - keeping an eye on him the entire way to see if he'd turn around - before looking back at Sen, and finally answer the other question that the longma had said.

"I don't know the entire story about how they got the land here, but as far as I am aware, they earned it fair and square, and have worked hard to maintain it. A few... Troublesome individuals, have attempted to wrestle control from them now and again, but have proven unsuccessful. At least that were the tale last I were here, and it seems to still be run by him, so I doubt things have changed there."

While they walked the last part towards the large, once-upon-a-time-white silo, Shrimp would start to stir elsewhere, and poke his snout out from the book tent, to sniff out if there were any food. The smell of the berries reached his nostrils, despite them being taken away not too long ago, and he started to slither out of his hiding place.

The little thing would yawn and stretch, before shaking his head and start to sniff around, attempting to find out where the box had gone. Lin could just give it to him if she wanted to, or she could give him a chance to train his hunting abilities, and sniff out where it currently were. The choice were hers.

=====================================================================================

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I can't tell ya. Sometimes it goes kinda slow and fine, other times I black out and a whole lotta -"

The door slammed shut, and the lock got turned, leaving the two of them alone in the large, sealed off room. Now nopony could hear them party. Or scream for that matter. A reason why this place were on occasion used by the staff to handle troublemakers. All nice and peacefully, away from prying eyes, though it were rare. Diego wanted to ban it entirely if it were up to him, yet sadly, his old school mother still had a large share in the casino, as well as several of the protective staff under her direct control, and as such were able to affect things in her own way. One day perhaps, this would be more reputable.

"- talking goes on afterwards to pick me up on what I've done. Usually with a rap sheet. It sorta depends on what sorta good stuff there's to drink, though first off, gonna have to get some food down. Drinking on an empty stomach's madness. How's about you start off on the couch or something, and I'll chow down while looking through the cabinets? Diego's gonna have something good here somewhere."

The arrangement would allow for Ruby to just sneak eat whenever Spicy were going through one of the cabinets, or the drawers, looking for the booze, so she could maintain her cover. This being an enclosed space though, she could pretty much do whatever she wanted to, and none would be the wiser.

==========================================================================================

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I have seen no reason to distrust you, Nada, so I welcome you to my home with open arms. Hmhm, or hooves, I think the ponies says? There are still so many things to get used to with this form, and the words they use."

She would admit, she missed the height that she used to have before this, but at the same time, she got less strange looks this way, and she wanted to try and blend in some, so that they felt more comfortable around her. Perhaps one day, she could return to how she had been, and things would remain good, yet for the time being, she found it best to be as this, and then try to adapt as best she could. All things considered, she didn't think she were doing too badly.

"And I have been busy with many things, in recent hours. The lake in which you resided are coming along well as an example. The beavers have told me that they will still need more time to do their work safely, but I have faith in their skills. Marvelous creatures I never saw at home, yet I could say that of many a creature within these woods. It is quite different from how it were in the valley, before the forbidden waters turned them to plants.

The enclave wherein the damaged one resided have been cleaned up too, and some of the animals have graciously volunteered to help remake the area and make it look prettier, either by their own strength, or through telling me how they think it would look the better."

Putting her hooves on the ground after saying this, a thick collaboration of vines rose up, and stopped when the tip were in Lyriel's head height. With a swipe of her hoof above it, the vines untangled to reveal the seed she had been granted by the plants, pulsating ever so slightly, and seemingly having small strings reach into the vines, grasping it there.

"There is still much to do with this, before it grows into the child that almost never were, but life have taken root within it at least. I pray that one day, it will bloom into something better than what came before, as she wished for it to do."

She ran a hoof slowly over it, tenderly caressing the top of the seed as if it were a small child, though her eyes spoke not of pride, but sadness. There were still too many memories of the plant that had given her this with the last of its strength, and a feeling of guilt, that she were not able to save her. A tragic loss, though not one that the ponies would agree with, sadly. Such were the burden that would fall upon this one, when one day it would bloomed. She prayed that the trust put in her to lift this weight with the new life, would not be misplaced.

===========================================================================

 

@Moonlit

"Ah, then it makes a lot more sense. Everypony needs a break now and again.

I'll make sure to say hello to harmony from you. Take care, and have fun."

She'd zoom over and give the mailman a quick hug, before zooming out of there and take to the sky, aiming to zig-zag her way back to Harmony sooner, rather than later. She almost ended up crashing into a pigeon, but that were a minor step back, and soon enough, she'd be right back at the entrance to the house, and knocked three times before entering.

"Heya, I'm back! I got some letters back for you too."

==========================================================================

 

@Critical-Hit

Shell looked like she really wanted to hug him, once Thunder said that he were adopted because his parents died. Sadly, she were still around her superior, so she had to keep it in, though he could see where this were headed. Seemed like as good a time as any to get back to work.

"Well, taken enough of your time. Looking forward to seeing you out there, recruit, and until next time: Embrace the sea."

He'd give a small wave to Thunder before going back inside the room he had been exiting before, and closing it behind him.

Scarcely had he done so before Shell had her hooves around Thunder and took him in to a hug.

"I'm so sorry to hear about your parents Thunder. That sounds awful! *sniff* It's so good of Fluttershy's family to take you in. Such kind ponies they must be."

========================================================================

 

@cwhip9

Temples. Despite Equestria being a land of no gods, mysteriously, temples from ages past sometimes still emerged, found by archaeologists trying to uncover ancient mysteries from before the kingdoms start, to adventurers, seeking fame and riches throughout the land.

Among these many, varied temples, some had clearly been made during the time of Equestria's time as a unified kingdom, whereas others seemed to hold older, more mysterious origins. Oftentimes it were easy enough to see on the structure, and the writing upon the walls on the inside, as the text used in Equestria's history, had largely not changed, barring how the words were spoken. So finding a language holding little connection to them, tended to be the indicator that you had found something older, and that tingled the heart of both explorer and archaeologist alike.

And then, there were ones like this.

Excavated mere days ago in the frozen north, the temple would have likely never been taken notice of, had the local loggers not stumbled upon it whilst looking for a cave during a particularly bad snow storm. The entrance had been blocked by quite a layer of ice, but a bit of work had gotten them through, and the sights within were puzzling.

No discernible texts were on the wall, likely hidden beneath layers of ice or corroded by the elements, and the front halls alone were a nightmare to traverse because of the frozen layers. Some brave loggers had pushed in some and found the inner halls to be more intact, but at the first sight of a still functional spike trap - which thankfully only caused a scare - the lot of them had huddled in the front again and waited until the storm were over, then reported back to the closest town about their find, looking for somepony to go there and discover what had been hidden in the snow for anything from a few years to multiple millennia.

Several parties of aspiring adventurers were already volunteering to going out and seeing what they may find, several of them working in harmony with groups of archaeologists that had found they could rely on their expertise in keeping them safe, long as they overlooked a few gems or gold bars here and there being pocketed. They more or less had an unspoken agreement on the protection being pro bono, and then the varied, non-historical objects on occasion counting as a sort of tax-free bonus.

The question remained who would get there first, and find out what the temple contained. Whatever it would be, the dangerous area it were in - along with whatever traps the temple may contain - would make it a fools errand to go there alone, despite the potential riches one may find.

Edited by Blitz Boom
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@Blitz Boom

With the cold wind up and sky dark blue one of the many volunteers to explore showed up at said temple. This explorer would to most ponies look a bit too young to solo a trip by himself. His height would be most the same height of a teen colt, his fur green, mane curly red, but not curly enough to cover up his horn. His blue eyes would overlook the building that was older than most ponies he knew. Half covered in ice but preserved remarkably well. 

"Zot your getting this right? this has to be the most preserved temple in equestria" the colt said to a small softball sized metal sphere with green energy coming from it with two eye inserts floating net to the pony. The little ball gave a chirp of acknowledgement its eyes glowing recording what was before the two. 

"come on, we don't have much time to spare we cant be the only ones looking for what she has to hold" the unicorn said hopefully sounding. Soon leading the floating metal ball towards an open entrance half covered by snow. His horn glowed and a green energy moved around the snow pile as he began to lift it up out of the way with his levitation magic. He entered the building... 

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@Blitz Boom

Thunder would nod to the Sergeant before he felt Shell's embrace, hugging her back "It was a tough time indeed, but they are indeed kind ponies, I mean they raised Fluttershy, the very element of kindness after all" he would say with a smile. "I'm sure if you have the time, why not come with me?" he'd ask "so you can meet them?"

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@Blitz Boom

The whole idea of a plot of land being owned by a family for their exclusive use was foreign, difficult to grasp. Everyone owns a piece of a larger common land, or rather a home in a section of forest. Here, it is closer to having almost a whole village-sized section used exclusively for growing food under the direction of a family. How that works better left spoken by the owners of orchards like these but Sen doubted the likelihood of ever seeing one of these back home. The soil likely isn’t conducive to growing anything but plant life found in thick woods and everything that grows in the forest is enough to meet their nutritional needs so long as they look after it. With a deal like that, it was already more than enough for the average longma. 

There was one other question Sen had stirring in his mind but Rosa’s reply to Apple Cinnamon’s question left him wondering how he came to be in a place like Appleloosa. A history of being a spy is a given but the details are more up Sen’s interest. Now wouldn’t be a good time to ask; perhaps when they returned to the cave he’d bring it up. For now, the longma silently followed Rosa to the silo.

Meanwhile, Lin noticed Shrimp stirring and soon enough, moving about from under the book she used as a tent. It’s breakfast time but the longma would observe how the refraction would behave in this situation. As much as she didn’t like withholding food to a young creature, she wished to see what Shrimp is capable of doing. The box is next to her saddle bags a short distance away, a quick walk to be exact. 

“Good morning, Shrimp! Did you sleep well?” Lin greeted, fully aware that she wouldn’t have a typical back and forth conversation with the refraction. It wouldn’t stop her from getting a bit of an informal language lesson to ease her little friend into being comfortable with trying to speak on his own, even if it is just a word at a time.

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@Blitz Boom

Curious was Lily's repeated concern whether Twisted was dead or not, considering how the rules of death were quite different in Harrowmark.  Rising could not confirm if the dark wizard was dead in the sense he was use to using the term.  Getting sucked into the ground by an avatar of darkness seems pretty deadly to the detective.  For all he knew, the bat pony could be walking around in the swamp as a zombie right now.  Did that still count was reporting that somepony was dead?  Such concepts will time the detective to fully wrap his head around.

Rising watched as the witch instantly reached for the sickle that he laid out on the floor before the cage, but with being able to touch it.  He wanted to give it to her, help her break the abuse she must have suffered under Twisted, but it wasn't the best idea at this time. "It will be returned to you once your daughter arrives to bring you home," he assured her.  Leaving it there for now with the plan to take with him when he departed from the jail room.  Wouldn't want another agent coming in with questions and concerns.

Now, it was time for his own curiosities to be sated.  Rising didn't find himself being all that shocked by the view of the primordial being of light when so much of her time had been under the rule of one that worshiped the dark.  Just as such the side was represented by the followers of the light.  Dividing up either being as good or evil was pointless when it really came down to it.  A pony couldn't understand the thoughts or values of a primordial being.  It'd be no different that saying a storm was evil.  No, it is a force of nature, doing its thing until it achieves balance and can stop.  Rising had witnessed Thistle almost erupting into a bomb of light, until he dismantled the process and turned the gathering power into a more appropriate weapon.  Resulting in one of his wisps in becoming part of the light that he borrowed from what little there was in the dark swamp.  Said wisp simply floating between the two.  The wisp still operated as it normally would, a key component to Rising's counter magics.  Many kept saying such a thing meant he had been blessed by the light goddess, but he wasn't so sure taking magic was really a blessing.  The truths of the gods of Harrowmark would continue to remain a mystery for now.

Lily then brought up an interesting concern, about the pixie.  Recalling the battle in the clearing for a quick rewatch, he supposed providing the witch a little more detail wouldn't hurt.  "Twisted had to call upon assistance when the battle wasn't going his way.  Some sort of dark avatar named Zon'vir.  It commented on wanting my body and power after hurting it in a brief duel.  My meddling apparently resulted in returning enough light to the swamp that my specter companion was able to keep the avatar at bay.  After telling Twisted that he was no herald, but a pawn that had failed the dark god and has no use.  It grabbed the dark wizard and dragged him underground. As for the pixie, last I saw it, it laid upon an altar nursing its wounds.  I know not what became of it after the battle."

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@Blitz Boom
Ruby made her way to the couch, it seemed this was going lot bigger waste of time than she had hoped, but well, couldn't do anything about it anymore, maybe she could take a nap until it's over if it didn't get interesting. She observed as Spicy did her thing, and ate some meat every time there didn't seem to be any risk to be seen, only touching the pony food if Spicy at any point looked even little like she could see what Ruby ate. She ate everything without chewing because she couldn't be sure if Spicy would be able to notice the lack of crunch. 

------------------------------------------------------------
"Don't worry, I have lot of catching up to do when it comes to the language too." Nada assured, she blinked curiously at the mention of something turning into plants due to water, but didn't ask about it, figuring that if Lyriel wanted to tell about it, she would do it without asking. She nodded with slight head tilt to Lyriel's last sentence, not really sure what to say or do for a moment "So....what kind of plant the...not-corrupted? version is? or is it still mystery?" 

 

 

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@cwhip9

The inside of the building hadn't snowed over more than what could be expected, after the workers had left a few days ago. The weather had been calm and still, and whilst snow had still fallen, it hadn't blown in here, so clearing the entrance would prove the main hassle, before he could enter and see the frozen temple closer.

Not that there were much to see. Beneath the layers of ice, and the slow corrosion of time working with the elements, whatever scripture might have been on the wall were undecipherable currently. If the layers of ice were melted down, and the archaeologists went at this with patience and care, they might be able to get something, but it would take months, Years maybe.

The loggers had left no equipment behind, so the unicorn wouldn't have much else to work with than his magic, and whatever else he had brought with him.

Some of the more curious loggers had hacked some holes into the ice on the ground, marking a path that could be followed for about six meters, before the layers would start to thin out, and the walls around him stood more clear. A thin layer of ice still covered them, and there were still nothing that could be learned from the deteriorated scratches beneath it, but the floor would be more passable. Depending on whatever or not he learned a lesson about being cautious, which the loggers hadn't. Something which should be evident from the hole in one side of the frozen wall, and the harpoon sticking into the opposite wall, clearly not having been there for all that long.

The steps beneath would show that it had been a simple pressure plate that had activated, once the heavy logger had cracked through some thin ice and gotten a step on the stone. Fortune smiled on him that he then also slipped, so that the harpoon missed its intended target.

It were strange though, that where the harpoon were stuck, the ice seemed to get thicker around the tip. Were the unicorn able to read magic, he might be able to tell this were an enchant on the weapon, designed to start freezing over whoever it hit. A dangerous thing to be struck by, but potentially also something of some usage, were he to pry it out of the wall and keep the tip from hitting himself.

As for paths to take, there were a completely solid chunk of dense ice to the right path, barring entrance there, with a closed door in front that would take a bit of hacking through the thin layer on it to get open, and then the left path had nothing barring the way. The path of least resistance, if you would like to see it that way.

======================================================================================

 

@Critical-Hit

"Well... I probably shouldn't, but the doc's did say it'd be best if I didn't go do something too taxing, and keeping you guarded for a bit while you go break the news sounds cozy enough. And the general have a good eye on you, so that means she'd want some word on how it went I bet..."

Shell were thinking out loud, as she pondered what to do with the inquiry at hoof. A pretty short round really, as the negatives were few compared to the positives, so she quickly just shrug her shoulders and got a big grin plastered all over her bandaged face.

"Alright, sure. Long as the lieutenant clears it. Can't go off without telling my superiors after all, right?"

And speaking of which, the very next room they'd reach were their destination, where Shell would knock thrice, then as she heard a muffled "Enter." would open up and lead the way into the small break room. A room in which so far, only the nervous lieutenant from before stood, with his helmet off and looked expectantly at a coffee maker.

"Nopony put a fresh can on, sir?"

"No..."

He looked a little depressed as she said this, clearly not too thrilled on this, but not being the type who got angered that easily either. It just saddened him that he had to wait for a much needed cup of joe, because others were inconsiderate.

"*sigh* Perhaps I need to put up a bigger sign next time?"

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@EQ_Theta

On 11/8/2019 at 2:32 PM, EQ_Theta said:

There was one other question Sen had stirring in his mind but Rosa’s reply to Apple Cinnamon’s question left him wondering how he came to be in a place like Appleloosa. A history of being a spy is a given but the details are more up Sen’s interest. Now wouldn’t be a good time to ask; perhaps when they returned to the cave he’d bring it up. For now, the longma silently followed Rosa to the silo.

It wasn't a long trip to get to the silo, and whilst they'd be able to see other ponies - and a young buffalo - taking care of the farm, at most they'd get the interaction of a wave here and there, or a smile. And that were just from the few who took note of them. Most did not, as there were plenty to do to harvest and prepare the apples for sale, so the town could get their much needed food on their tables, and stocked up their pantries for a while. Sure they ate other things too, but especially for ponies, they tended to have a fondness for apples, and especially when there were an Apple family farm, as they had a well deserved reputation for being good apple farmers.

When eventually they'd reach the silo, Rosa would slowly open the door and wander in, leaving them with quite the sight, as corn were hoarded up nearly everywhere in the large silo, and already seemingly being filled over two thirds up to the ceiling. Must've been a good harvest for the nearby corn field this time around, if they already had this much stockpiled. No wonder they all seemed so busy outside. This much would likely have required them to go and help, putting them behind on their own product, but what one did not do to help a neighbor around here. A commendable act, and one who could come in handy another time, as then others might help them in their rush to get the farm sorted.

As the old proverb went: One hoof washes the other.

Overlooking all of this, with his back turned to them and scribbling something down on a clipboard filled with papers, stood the stallion that they had seemingly come looking for.

latest?cb=20140712194015

"- and that's the last. Corn Mortar's gonna have a field day with this."

"Seems like a solid harvest."

The earth pony stallion turned around, surprised to hear the voices, and took a few seconds to look over the visitors. His appearance seemed to be on the younger side - mid twenties perhaps - but the curious, searching look going over his eyes seemed to indicate that he got more experience in dealing with others than you'd think, and were just trying to assess how he'd approach them.

It helped though that he recognized one of them, though with the silly way his glasses were on, and with the strange company he kept, it had taken a bit for Golden to recognize the bat pony. Soon as he did though, a pleased grin got over his face.

"Dang Rosa, you look like you've been wrangling a hydra."

"A golden statue actually, but I'll live."

"That's a relief. Wouldn't want to hear you've been seen on the flipside yet. Now, who's yer friend here?"

While it sounded like he asked Rosa, the stallion had actually gone over to sen and stuck a hoof forward towards the longma whilst asking this directly to his face.

"Hi there. Name's Golden Delicious, and if you're with him, you got a golden stamp in my ledger."

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@Rising Dusk

On 11/9/2019 at 3:10 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"Twisted had to call upon assistance when the battle wasn't going his way.  Some sort of dark avatar named Zon'vir.  It commented on wanting my body and power after hurting it in a brief duel.  My meddling apparently resulted in returning enough light to the swamp that my specter companion was able to keep the avatar at bay.  After telling Twisted that he was no herald, but a pawn that had failed the dark god and has no use.  It grabbed the dark wizard and dragged him underground. As for the pixie, last I saw it, it laid upon an altar nursing its wounds.  I know not what became of it after the battle."

"Then I doubt it is over..."

Lily looked sullen and sat down flat on her flank. She needed a few minutes to process all that Rising had told her, though no matter the journey, the end result still remained the same in her mind.

"...I brought him the pixie myself. The last of the brood that attacked my grandfathers farm, tempered in poison and locked in the cursed chest for decades. Just a shriveled husk when I gave it to him, carrying a disturbing secret, but soon as he re-awakened it...

He took the magic it ate back then, and stored it elsewhere, then did something to it. I don't know what. There was a lot of blood, rituals I didn't understand... It is still beyond my expertise, but I know that he always kept it close after that, and tried to make it work like it once had. He punished me often, whenever he failed to get it done right too.

I pray he failed to do anything constructive in the end, but Twisted were a talented witch, and he never told me everything. I wasn't worth it, so if he managed to make it a conduit for his spell, he wouldn't have told me.

Heed my words though, outlander. he boasted that the pixie were meant to carry a piece of him around, to be reunited with his bloodline, were he ever to fall. If he succeeded in at least implanting the spell, it will be drawn towards his kin, and implant his mind unto hers. And if he didn't, or he lied to me... *sigh* Then Harrowmark will sooner or later have to deal with its polluted clan once more. A threat, but still lesser than having him return, even if I fear his granddaughter will still find them drawn towards her."

A disturbing prospect, yet Rising should be able to confirm that Twisted had failed in this endeavor at least. Even if there had been some sort of implant into the small creature, there were no discernible bond between it and him in his final moments, so either that had been dispelled while he were mending it, or he had failed to complete whatever ritual he had started.

However, whoever this granddaughter of his were, they were likely still in danger, if the pixie had been given enough implanted to make it seek her out, as Lily feared. Whatever or not it could implant a new version of Twisted in her mind, it were likely still going to cause trouble in some capacity, though hopefully Harrowmark could deal with the issue. He couldn't go and handle every problem they had after all, when Equestria had plenty of use for him itself.

As for Zon'vir... He is the first of Suusha's spawn. A demigod, resting in the twisted below with his kin, wherein no mortal can thread. A powerful, but merciless creature, which no sane being asks for aid, unless they are desperate. If you survived his assault, and you claim a specter helped you with that too, I guess that means not only is the goddess getting stronger already, but the high priestess is once again free? A dangerous creature in her own right that one, with quite the axe to grind. I'd thread cautiously around her, though I imagine she already showed you the pyre I'd be burned upon? Or have she advocated that I got fed to the moths?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

Spicy couldn't be less bothered about whatever Ruby were doing, and just kept scouring through the closets, pulling up random bottles that she found, and sometimes giggling a little to herself when she found a proper interesting one.

Said bottles came in generally elegant shapes, ranging from classic vine bottles to more extravagant decanters, and bottles with a twisted neck that wouldn't make it any easier to drink from, but were clearly just there to make it stand out a little more.

The fancier the drink, the more strange the colors of the insides were too, with one of them actually having a layered, seven colored drink in it. The flask also looked like it had been made by someone on some kind of mind altering elixir, and likely cost a ton, but it still seemed to make Spicy positively giddy with joy.

Starting to mix and match the varied things into a few tall glasses, and making sure to sniff it out, to make sure it were done right, she'd eventually stand with what amounted to two tall glasses of (somehow) glittery, color-changing drinks that frankly were more reminiscent of a dazzled up lava lamp than anything that should go into your muzzle.

"I knew he wouldn't let me down. Y'know, when he and I first slapped this together, we woke up three days later in Dodge Junction, wrapped up nicely in the hospital and having our fur scrubbed of something mighty itchy and foul smelling. We had no idea what had gone on, and his daddy made sure that whatever it were, stayed under wrap. I had a biiiig load of favors to pay him off with afterwards to keep me sheltered from it too, but darned be if I ever figured out what exactly happened. Completely blank set of days there.

Diego wanted to call this a *Fateful Gathering*, before that night. Afterwards, we took one look at eachother, and agreed it's better off being called *Bad Choices*."

Aaah, good memories. Well... Most of them anyway. There were a bit more to the story than this, and she twisted a few things around as to Why exactly Diego's dad had been helping her out too, and the way they resolved it, but some things were private, and then there were close to heart. Only the three of them knew this story, and with the old stallions sad passing, that was down to Diego and her. Something she'd prefer to stay that way.

"I were pretty young back then, so I dunno. Might be able to last more than a glass these days. Frankly haven't tried this in years, but the stuff were stocked for it. Heh, probably because he figured I wouldn't be back again before there'd be something to really celebrate. Like the old, shriveled up prune finally just setting off for the afterlife already."

===============================================================================

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"It is as much a mystery to me, as it is to you."

She gently ran a hoof down the side of the dear seed, before letting it return to the ground to feast of the rich soil once more.

"The one who tried to protect it, had barely any strength left, and the words were staggered. She knew there were not much time left, but kept on to try and save what remained. The trust put in me, with her final action... I know not what will bloom from this seed, but I know the responsibility I accepted, and I will honor it.

Still, I must learn of where the one before this came from, and what happened to her. I got little from her hurried words of what came before, only that she had since been attacked, and tried going to where we found her for shelter whilst she healed. I regret that I could not get to her sooner, before her wounds had gotten as severe as they had..."

A tragic loss of life to her, but as strong as Lyriel were in nature magic, it had been too late for the poor thing. The best she could do were to offer to carry the burden she had lingered to maintain, and then guide the poor thing towards the earth mothers embrace. Lyriel were sure that the Plunderseed would find solace there, and hopefully one day grow to a more loved creation.

"But that I will have to ask of the ponies, when time comes. Perhaps in the coming days, though I imagine I have a long time, as the poor thing have barely taken root.

Listen to me, fawning over it as if it is my young... *sigh* Perhaps it will end up being the closest I'll have, lest I find a way to get my tormented people to these forests."

Her gaze and mind seemed to be elsewhere for a little, before she refocused again. She had found herself to often do that, in times when she had the option to actually look at how things were, and mourn her people's plight, as well as her responsibility in needing to find them a way here, to test if the sphinx at least held her words true of their salvation. If not, they were sadly beyond redemption.

"My apologies, I did not mean to lament like this. Please, you must hold questions or stories of your own. Don't let me interrupt them, if you have something to say."

==============================================================================

 

@Moonlit

"Oh, you got any pears?"

Mmm, delicious, succulent pears. The thought alone were delicious, but she'd like had to go beyond just thought here, in case Harmony had some, and straight into munching territory. And speaking of just going for it...

Sneaking closer and closer to the sleeping Serenade, Ziggy readied herself to go over and give the hidden siren a big ol' surprise hug, complete with loud noises and an attempt to wake her up so that she could enjoy the day, rather than just snoozing it away.

Sadly, she had to drop the idea when she got close enough to notice that Fah'lina were napping on Serenade, curled up and wedged in right next to her face - likely to soak up some fish breath - like a strange, breathing pillow. Ziggy couldn't wake Serenade up without getting the mimic riled up too, and that meant she'd get nibbled on. Something she'd prefer to avoid if possible, thank you very much.

So her plans got foiled this time. But next time, Gad- Serenade. Next time...

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@Blitz Boom

Thunder would shake his head "Can't be a guard on an empty stomach" He would say, making his way to the coffee machine, grinding up the coffee, replacing the filter and then putting the coffee on "There you go Lieutenant, some fresh coffee should be available soon" He'd say with a bit of a shake of his head.

He would then look to Shell "Well, lets get it cleared then we can head over to Twilight's to see if he can get us to Cloudsdale"

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